Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) reaches up to catch a pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) reaches up to catch a pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) hauls in an interception on a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) hauls in an interception on a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) celebrates his interception with teammates during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) celebrates his interception with teammates during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans quarterback T.J. Yates (6) and tackle Duane Brown (76) jump up to embrace wide receiver Cecil Shorts (18) after Shorts threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to running back Alfred Blue during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) leaps over New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) on a run near the goal line during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) leaps over New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) on a run near the goal line during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans quarterback T.J. Yates (6) drops back to pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Houston Texans quarterback T.J. Yates (6) drops back to pass during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) beats New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) for a 61-yard touchdown reception during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) beats New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) for a 61-yard touchdown reception during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) catches a pass for a 61-yard touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) catches a pass for a 61-yard touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) jumps into a crowd of cheering fans after he scored a 61-yard touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) jumps into a crowd of cheering fans after he scored a 61-yard touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) celebrates his touchdown with fans during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) celebrates his touchdown with fans during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) runs with his interception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) runs with his interception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) celebrates his interception with outside linebacker John Simon (51) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) celebrates his interception with outside linebacker John Simon (51) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) celebrates after causing an incomplete pass on third down during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) celebrates after causing an incomplete pass on third down during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) and inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) stop New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) and inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) stop New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) at the line of scrimmage during the second quarter of an NFL ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) celebrates after making a catch for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) celebrates after making a catch for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) celebrates after making a 21-yard touchdown reception on a pass from Cecil Shorts during the third quarter against the New York Jets of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) celebrates after making a 21-yard touchdown reception on a pass from Cecil Shorts during the third quarter against the New York Jets of an NFL football game at NRG ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets wide receiver Jeremy Kerley (11) is brought down by the Houston Texans defense during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets wide receiver Jeremy Kerley (11) is brought down by the Houston Texans defense during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) tackles New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) short of a first down during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) tackles New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) short of a first down during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) stops New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) as he is forced out of the pocket during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. The play was called down on contact. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) stops New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) as he is forced out of the pocket during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) beats New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) for a 61-yard touchdown reception during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) beats New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) for a 61-yard touchdown reception during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle )

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt celebrates after sacking New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt celebrates after sacking New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) beats out New York Jets tackle Breno Giacomini (68) to tackle New York Jets running back Stevan Ridley (22) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) beats out New York Jets tackle Breno Giacomini (68) to tackle New York Jets running back Stevan Ridley (22) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Playing on offense, Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) misses a touchdown pass as he is wrapped up by New York Jets strong safety Calvin Pryor (25) during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Playing on offense, Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) misses a touchdown pass as he is wrapped up by New York Jets strong safety Calvin Pryor (25) during the first quarter of an NFL football game at ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets strong safety Calvin Pryor (25) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets strong safety Calvin Pryor (25) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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A Houston Texans fan cheers during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle )

A Houston Texans fan cheers during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) and outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) sack New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) and outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) sack New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans running back Jonathan Grimes (41) finds a route past New York Jets defensive end Leonard Williams (92) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Jonathan Grimes (41) finds a route past New York Jets defensive end Leonard Williams (92) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates on the sidelines after a Texan touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates on the sidelines after a Texan touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver Keith Mumphery (12) gets flipped around by New York Jets defensive back Buster Skrine (41) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver Keith Mumphery (12) gets flipped around by New York Jets defensive back Buster Skrine (41) during the second quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) pulls down a 20-yard touchdown reception with New York Jets strong safety Marcus Williams (20) defending during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) pulls down a 20-yard touchdown reception with New York Jets strong safety Marcus Williams (20) defending during the third quarter of an NFL football game at ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus (59) dives in an attempt to tackle New York Jets running back Bilal Powell (29) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus (59) dives in an attempt to tackle New York Jets running back Bilal Powell (29) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans head coach Bill O'Brien, right, walks out onto the field during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans head coach Bill O'Brien, right, walks out onto the field during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver Keith Mumphery (12) reacts after his kickoff return during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver Keith Mumphery (12) reacts after his kickoff return during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) causes an incomplete pass to New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Charles James (31) causes an incomplete pass to New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans/J.J. Watt fan with a big head of Watt during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Houston Texans/J.J. Watt fan with a big head of Watt during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) is hit by Houston Texans strong safety Quintin Demps (27) as he dives across the goal line for a 6-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) is hit by Houston Texans strong safety Quintin Demps (27) as he dives across the goal line for a 6-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of an NFL ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver Cecil Shorts (18) celebrates after Shorts threw the touchdown pass to running back Alfred Blue during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver Cecil Shorts (18) celebrates after Shorts threw the touchdown pass to running back Alfred Blue during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans wide receiver Nate Washington (85) is taken down by New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans wide receiver Nate Washington (85) is taken down by New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans strong safety Quintin Demps (27) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Quincy Enunwa (81) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans strong safety Quintin Demps (27) breaks up a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Quincy Enunwa (81) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) and linebacker Brian Cushing celebrate Pleasant's interception of a pass by New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive back Eddie Pleasant (35) and linebacker Brian Cushing celebrate Pleasant's interception of a pass by New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick during the fourth quarter of an NFL ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) dives to intercept a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans strong safety Andre Hal (29) dives to intercept a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) during the second half of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. ... more

Houston Texans tackle Duane Brown (76) hugs quarterback T.J. Yates (6) after Yates threw a touchdown pass during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) reaches up to try to knock down a pass thrown by New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) reaches up to try to knock down a pass thrown by New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets punter Ryan Quigley (4) sits on the turf after believing he had been roughed on a punt during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets punter Ryan Quigley (4) sits on the turf after believing he had been roughed on a punt during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans free safety Kurtis Drummond (40) celebrates stopping New York Jets during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans free safety Kurtis Drummond (40) celebrates stopping New York Jets during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) shows his muscle after stopping the New York Jets offense during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans inside linebacker Brian Cushing (56) shows his muscle after stopping the New York Jets offense during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) is brought down by Houston Texans strong safety Kevin Johnson (30) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) is brought down by Houston Texans strong safety Kevin Johnson (30) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, ... more

Houston Texans quarterback T.J. Yates (6) hugs New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) after the Texans win after an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans running back Jonathan Grimes (41) is tackled by New York Jets outside linebacker Calvin Pace (97) after making a first down reception during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Jonathan Grimes (41) is tackled by New York Jets outside linebacker Calvin Pace (97) after making a first down reception during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) lands a hit on Houston Texans wide receiver Cecil Shorts (18) and prevents him from making a catch during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis (24) lands a hit on Houston Texans wide receiver Cecil Shorts (18) and prevents him from making a catch during the first quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) nearly catches a pass against Houston Texans strong safety Kevin Johnson (30) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

New York Jets wide receiver Devin Smith (19) nearly catches a pass against Houston Texans strong safety Kevin Johnson (30) during the third quarter of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) laughs with New York Jets running back Stevan Ridley (22) after an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans running back Alfred Blue (28) laughs with New York Jets running back Stevan Ridley (22) after an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) stands in the tunnel with an American flag during the introduction of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) stands in the tunnel with an American flag during the introduction of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt carries a flag as he runs onto the field during pre-game ceremonies before an NFL football game between the Texans and the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt carries a flag as he runs onto the field during pre-game ceremonies before an NFL football game between the Texans and the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) runs onto the field with an American flag before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) runs onto the field with an American flag before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Jordan Matthews, right, cheers at the Shotgun 30 tailgate before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle )

Jordan Matthews, right, cheers at the Shotgun 30 tailgate before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) shakes the hand of a veteran before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) shakes the hand of a veteran before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) plays catch with fans before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) plays catch with fans before the start of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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A U.S. Marie holds a large American flag during pre-game ceremonies before an NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

A U.S. Marie holds a large American flag during pre-game ceremonies before an NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the New York Jets at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Brett ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Service members unfurl an American flag in the shape of the United States for the national anthem before an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle ) less

Service members unfurl an American flag in the shape of the United States for the national anthem before an NFL football game at NRG Stadium Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Michael Ciaglo / Houston ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo / Houston Chronicle

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Service members stand in the tunnel during the introduction of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Service members stand in the tunnel during the introduction of an NFL football game at NRG Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Houston. ( Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle )

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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Revived running game key to Texans' victory against the Jets

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With the help of some imagination and trickeration to bamboozle the NFL’s top-rated defense against the run, the Texans revived their ground game Sunday from a month-long hibernation.

Six Houston ballcarriers combined for 123 yards on 37 carries against the Jets, recording the team’s first 100-yard rushing game since their Sept. 27 win over the Buccaneers and breaking a team-record string of five consecutive games with less than a hundred yards.

“They were the No. 1 rush defense, and we gained more than a hundred yards on them,” center Ben Jones said. “We did our part.”

The ground game needed help from some unconventional sources, including wide receiver Cecil Shorts III’s 26 yards on four direct snaps and a pair of direct snaps to running back Jonathan Grimes that accounted for 21 of his 37 yards.

The rest of the ground game remains a work in progress – Alfred Blue, for example, averaged just 2.8 yards on his 21 carries for 58 yards – but it was a definite forward step for a segment of the Texans’ game that hasn’t been the same since the loss to injury of Arian Foster.

“We’re getting better each week. We’re cleaning things up,” Blue said. “I don’t think their defense was prepared for what we were doing. I don’t think they thought we would do direct snaps to receivers and running backs. It throws them off, and the guys that did it executed it well.”

After rolling up 186 yards against Tampa Bay, the Texans’ ground game regressed into ineffectiveness, dropping to 28th in the league with an average of just 87.2 yards per game. The Jets entered the game rated No. 1 against the run with an average yield of 88.1 yards, so the Texans’ ability to run the ball by whatever means helped turn the tide Sunday.

“I’m proud of the guys and the work we put in to get the ground game going against one of the toughest run defenses in the league,” said tackle Duane Brown. “We have to keep doing it. We have to continue to rely on our running game to set up everything else.”

“Being able to run it consistently and make them honest led to some big plays down the field in the play action game.”

Blue had one carry for 14 yards in the third quarter on the play that preceded T.J. Yates’ second touchdown pass to DeAndre Hopkins, but it otherwise was tough sledding for him. Grimes had a couple of six-yard runs from traditional formations and also had three catches for 28 yards to Blue’s three catches for 34 yards.

“The backs have gotten a chance now where they’re seeing what we’re trying to do,” coach Bill O’Brien said. “These are backs that haven’t always played a lot for us because of Arian (Foster) being in there and things like that. I think they’re into more of a rhythm.”

He said the Texans will not “abandon ship on the running game just because maybe the first five or six runs didn’t go so well. Today we had some runs that were schematically a little bit new, and I think that helped us.”

Brown, however, said the Texans must be able to mix the novelty of the direct snap/wildcat style with more effective play in their traditional run game, which stalled along with the rest of the offense in the fourth quarter as the Jets made a comeback bid.

“We still have to be able to run our other bread and butter plays and do a better job in the four-minute (offense) and close the game out,” he said. “We have to do a better job in that area.”